Read Online Lake, Ciara - Xihirah [Xihiran Shifters 1] (Siren Publishing Classic) by Ciara Lake - Free Book Online

greeting as their party entered. “Wow.” Saleeya eyed the entrance hall with a mixture of amazement and shock. The enormous area opened into a larger area. Another archway separated the entry hall from what she assumed was a reception room. The room could host large parties and events. The servant waved a hand, directing them into the reception room. Sparsely furnished, the room was decorated with brightly colored sofas, chairs, and pillows. The décor was casually comfortable yet elegant. Several elaborate crystal chandeliers hung from the high ceilings. Ornately carved mirrors and tapestries lined the walls. The tapestries seemed to tell the history of the early Xihirah to present day.
    “Miss Stayvel, how was your trip to the Palace?” Vitalion nudged her arm, a look of disgust upon his face.
    “It was pleasant, Minister Vitalion. This planet’s very lovely.”
    “It’s okay,” he flatly responded. “In the future, I want you to remember that you need to ride with the rest of our party,” he sneered. “I’m after all…”
    A rush of heat flooded Saleeya’s face at his statement. It angered her. “I’m sorry.” Saleeya’s tone was hushed. “I didn’t ride with you.” Saleeya met his gaze steadily. Her stomach was uneasy with anxiety at his rude attitude. Nevertheless, she was not going to back down to Vitalion. He was a bully. “To refuse the reasonable invitation of the Xihirian Prince would’ve been a mistake. We’re here to form alliances. Also, Minister, you gave your permission for me to walk with him. It was only natural to end up on the same transport with him.”
    “Whatever, you don’t have to remind me. Perhaps it was better you rode with him. Better you endure his bestial company than me.” Vitalion waved his hands, obviously disgusted with the idea of being alone with the Xihirians, especially Kael. “After I’ve been escorted to my room and I’m settled, I’ll need to go over a few details with you before our midday meal with the Xihirian Sovereign. I don’t wish to delay, so don’t waste time. Attend me quickly. You should be rested well enough from the trip from the terminal. I was able to take a slight nap. If not, there’ll be time enough for you to rest later.” Vitalion was exceedingly curt with her.
    “Minister,” Kael called out as he entered the hall. His voice was harsh. He made subtle gestures communicating with his staff as he strode toward them.
    “Yes, Admoncor Braeden,” Vitalion stammered. Kael towered over the frail man, his penetrating stare enough to intimidate. Saleeya glanced at Vitalion’s hands. They trembled. Despite her dislike for the man’s arrogance, she took pity on him.
    “All of the luggage has arrived. The staff has placed your bags in your suites. Commander Tavitt along with me will escort you to your suites. I strongly advise you and your staff cool off and rest prior to the midday meal. This humid heat can be rather tiresome to newcomers. I’m certain you must recall from your last visit with us. I believe you fainted, Minister.” Kael raised an eyebrow. Saleeya could tell Kael’s comment was a jab at the Minister. “The Palace staff have been given orders to delay midday meal for two hours. That’ll give you and your party time to rest. You’ll find it comfortably cool in the Palace.” Kael started to walk away. “He’ll accompany you to your suites. If you need anything along the way, let him know.” With a nod, a tall, powerfully built Xihirian stepped forward. Ignoring the rest of the party, Kael strode over, offered his arm to Saleeya. “Saleeya, come, walk with me. I’d like very much to get to know you better. Also, you can help me better understand the Kriton people. I’m interested in your culture,” Kael coaxed more gently.
    “Well, ah.” Saleeya glanced from Kael to Mia, uncertainty in her eyes. “Of course, Admoncor, I’d be delighted.”
    “Yes, Saleeya, walk with the Admoncor,” Vitalion insisted.